Overview of Grayslake

According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Grayslake's population surpassed 21,000 in 2011. Located about 50 miles northwest of Chicago, Grayslake is one of the most distant and rural-feeling suburbs in the Chicago metropolis. Home to shopping and farmland, highways and country roads, and developed subdivisions and pristine natural lakes, Grayslake offers something for everyone with its all-encompassing interpretation of Chicagoland living. Those searching for Grayslake apartments for rent will be happy to discover that people from all walks of life feel right at home in this friendly village.

Grayslake's history extends to a period long before the suburban movement. When the Wisconsin Central Railroad decided in the 1880s to build a link between Chicago and Fond du Lac, Wis., a local farmer refused to sell his plot of land to the company. He demanded instead that the company purchase the entire farm. The builders obliged and used the excess land to incorporate Grayslake in 1895. A downtown was constructed, which remains standing to this day, offering a historic downtown space that has been well-preserved to showcase its antique light and architecture.

Living in Grayslake, IL

Grayslake is a family-friendly community. About 73 percent of the village's households are comprised of families, and 41.6 percent of the households contain children younger than 18. Parents flock to Grayslake for its ample yard space and small-town charm. However, Grayslake is not without amenities. The village is located about eight miles from Gurnee Mills, a regionally famous shopping center. Hawthorne Mall, another regional favorite, is located 10 miles south of Grayslake in Vernon Hills.

Grayslake residents love their village for its incorporation of outdoor activities. The Grayslake Community Garden allows aspiring gardeners to plant and grow to their hearts' content, while the 40-acre Central Park allows for a sense of community and open space. In 2012, Grayslake celebrates its 18th year of recognition by the National Arbor Day Foundation as a Tree City USA. Since 2000, more than 1,200 new trees have been planted throughout Grayslake.

Grayslake is also the site of a nationally recognized conservation community. Prairie Crossing offers residents a true prairie-style environment situated among prairie grasses, growing trees and beautiful lakes. Home to its own charter school and farm, Prairie Crossing is an environmentally and community-minded neighborhood.

Grayslake Work and Study

Grayslake is home to the College of Lake County, which enrolls about 5,800 students each year. In addition, McHenry County College and Harper College are located within 20 miles of the village.

Grayslake is a truly suburban city, so many of its residents commute to Chicago or other communities for work. During the workday, the village loses about 16 percent of its population due to commuting. This is helped by the fact that Grayslake enjoys commuter rail services via the Metra, with two stations on the Milwaukee District/North Line and one station on the North Central line.

According to the Village of Grayslake, the top employers within the village are the College of Lake County, COMPX, GFX, Intrupa Manufacturing and Rockenbach Chevrolet Sales.

Rentals in Grayslake, IL and Cost of Living

According to city-data.com, Grayslake's cost of living index is 102.9, which is 2.9 percent more than the national average. Additionally, those searching for Grayslake rentals should keep commuting and driving costs in mind, as the village is not particularly walkable. However, some commuting costs may be alleviated by taking advantage of Chicagoland's commuter rail service. Grayslake's cost of living index is also lower than many of other Chicago suburbs.

According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Grayslake's median gross rent was $868 in 2010. About 21 percent of households in the village were renter-occupied.

Grayslake Attractions and Special Events

Grayslake is home to the Lake County Fair. The fairgrounds are used throughout the year for events like antique shows, expos, flea markets and more, but the fair tops all other events with its pageants, music, food and competitions.

To find your next rental apartment or house in Grayslake, take a look at our listings on Rent.com®.

Search By Property Type

Advertisement

Advertisement

Rent.com is the only free rental site that helps you find an affordable apartment, gives you tips on how to move and then says, "Thank you" with a pre-paid $100 Rent.com Visa® Reward Card. Here's how it works.